Which method is considered a non-lethal approach for controlling wildlife populations?

Fertility control is recognized as a non-lethal method for managing wildlife populations because it aims to reduce population growth without directly killing animals. This method involves the application of various techniques, such as administering contraception or manipulating reproductive hormones, to prevent animals from reproducing effectively. By managing the birth rates within a population, fertility control helps stabilize or reduce numbers over time, allowing wildlife managers to maintain ecological balance while minimizing harm to individual animals.

This approach is particularly valuable in contexts where wildlife populations are causing significant ecological or human-wildlife conflict issues but require alternatives to lethal control to ensure ethical wildlife management practices. It is considered a humane option that preserves animal welfare while addressing population concerns. In contrast, the other methods listed typically involve lethal outcomes or the need to remove animals from their natural habitat.